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Get going more quickly

The Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD navigation receiver features Insta-Search and Insta-Route, which will get you started on your journey fast and save you time searching for locations. It uses predictive text so you'll even save time typing in the name of your destination, while built-in trademark guidance from Garmin ensures your routes are accurate and easy to follow. You can also take advantage of smartphone connectivity that lets you incorporate your phone's features with your commute while maintaining safe driving practices.

Take your phone with you

The DNX690HD makes it easy to get more out of your phone on the go, but it works in different ways for different devices:

iPhone®: With a separate cable, you'll get control of your Pandora® Internet radio, Aha Radio, and iHeartRadio apps through the receiver's touchscreen when connected. App Mode also gives you limited control over other select apps on your phone. The DNX690HD also offers compatibility with your iPhone's Siri® feature for select email, Bluetooth® calling, and iPod® commands.

Android™: You'll get control of your smartphone's Pandora, Aha Radio, and iHeartRadio apps through Bluetooth, so no cable needed. The Kenwood Music Control app also gives you easy search and playback functions of your Android phone's music through the receiver.

BlackBerry®: You'll get Pandora Internet radio app control through Bluetooth, so no cable needed.

Free built-in NAVTEQ traffic reports

NAVTEQ traffic information for major metropolitan areas comes with the DNX690HD, at no cost to you. You'll be able to see congestion along your route and find a way around it from the driver's seat.

Bluetooth compatibility for hands-free calling

Built-in Bluetooth lets you make and take calls through the receiver via your compatible phone. When your iPhone's connected with a cable, the receiver will automatically send a pairing request to your phone — all you have to do is accept or deny the request. The Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD also supports wireless audio playback (AD2P) and control (AVRCP) of any Bluetooth enabled audio player or smartphone.

HD Radio™ tuner

The DNX690HD also features an HD Radio tuner. You'll enjoy much-improved AM/FM sound quality when you're tuned into a local participating station, and there's no subscription required — just tune it in like a regular radio station.

More audio and video options

This receiver will play all your CDs and DVDs, including discs loaded with music files, while two rear A/V inputs offer connections for more audio/video sources. You can plug your iPod or a thumb drive into the rear USB port, and enjoy all your favorite albums and playlists. No matter what you're listening to, Kenwood designed the DNX690HD to send a crisp, clear audio signal to your speakers, and you can use the 3-band parametric equalizer and other soundshaping tools to adjust the sound for your vehicle.

The high-resolution 6.1" WVGA screen is perfect for viewing video from DVDs or other sources when you're parked. You can tap into video content on your iPod or iPhone with the help of an iPod cable (not included). When you're on the road, you can play movies through a rear-seat monitor for your passengers, so they can stay entertained during long road trips.

Expand your system

You can hook up a satellite radio tuner (not included) to the receiver and access the wide variety of entertainment, sports, news, and commercial-free music satellite radio provides. You can also connect a rear-view camera, so you can see what's behind you as you back out of a tight parking space. If you're looking to add subs and amps, you can take advantage of three sets of high-voltage preamp outputs available, including a dedicated subwoofer output with low-pass filter and level control.

iDatalink Maestro lets you keep your SYNC features

If your Ford vehicle comes with factory SYNC features, you don't have to worry about losing your favorite conveniences to get navigation and better sound — the DNX690HD offers compatibility you won't find in many other aftermarket radios, thanks to the iDatalink Maestro module. For SYNC systems, you'll be able to retain voice-controlled features, steering wheel audio controls, and factory audio functions, plus enjoy expanded functionality including gauges, climate controls, a distance sensor, and tire pressure monitor. The DNX690HD will also be compatible with GM OnStar and Chrysler uConnect systems, with adapters from iDatalink coming soon.

Want to keep your car's steering wheel audio controls?

In most vehicles, you can use an adapter (not included) to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this Kenwood stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and the Kenwood, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls.

Note: Bluetooth compatibility of this device may vary, depending on your phone and service provider.

Note: If you're going to use your iPod or iPhone with this receiver, be sure to check "Details" for specific model compatibility with this receiver or its optional iPod adapter.

Other information:

Why install a car stereo with built-in GPS?

Imagine taking a trip as your car's receiver gives you directions, finds the best restaurant for dinner, and plays movies for your back seat denizens. Navigation receivers cover all the bases, with GPS guidance, DVD playback, and a host of other useful features. You can search through millions of points of interest to locate gas stations, restaurants, museums, and other interesting spots, wherever you are. Most receivers offer Bluetooth capability for hands-free calling, along with the ability to search through your iPod playlists with touchscreen controls.

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Refurb Bargain!

With this unit as the center of my new truck's AV system, it took me over a month to get the unit, speakers and subwoofer installed. This was my perfectionist ways an no fault of the Kenwood. As it stands, I'm thrilled with everything I've seen so far. I give it four stars only because Kenwood insists on publishing crappy manuals that don't give you enough information. Crutchfield helps by having such a great library of stuff to pick from. And only one call to Tech Support to turn off the annoying speaker restrictions that Kenwood has. After a bit of use, I'll revise... if needed!

Pros:Price, sound quality, video quality

Cons:Confusing setup, lack of competent instructions on Kenwood's part

So far so good....

Very easy install in a 2007 Nissan Frontier. Little lag on start up and BT but nothing unbearable. Love using Spotify via BT on my iPad and iPhone. Not having a clock on the Nav screen is a bummer but not a deal breaker. I did purchase the extended warranty with this refurb unit just in case I have any hiccups as some other reviewers noted occur. Had to order the iPhone/pad connection wire so have not been able to use a lot of the features yet. Going to need to get new speakers now as the factory ones will not keep up with this unit. Only complaint is that based on product specs is says batteries and a CD with Instruction Manual included. Neither were in the packaging. So I've had to learn how to make adjustments without any guidance.

Too Many Problems

Kenwood Excelon has always been my go to. However, after this unit, I'm gonna look at other options. Right from the start I was experiencing problems. 1. Radio was skipping 2. Rear Pre-amp out doesn't work. 3. Bluetooth quality and volume was very poor 4. Touchscreen works, but is not as fluid as everyday devices. 5. OS Startup is slow 6. Navigation complaints

Radio Skipping: This one I can't blame on the unit. The feature for HD radio was causing buffering. When I turned back to analog the quality obviously wasn't as good, but no more skipping.

Rear Pre-amp doesn't work: My unit came with another amp which was placed in between the DNX690 and the cars harness. (That amp was a separate piece of garbage). I manually tested the connections from the secondary amp to the car and hear music in all speakers. When I plugged any of the four connections into the DNX690 rear Left or Right preamp outs, no music. I verified that the settings on the device were set to play on the entire car.

Bluetooth Quality I connect my Samsung Galaxy S3 and stream Spotify music. The music volume is significantly lower. I modified settings on the phone to make sure any equalizing effects were off.

Touchscreen The touchscreen is alright.. It works, but it doesn't feel like say my Galaxy device.

OS Startup Like I said. slow. My guess is some redhat based os.

Navigation navigation startup screen is annoying. I have to 'agree' every startup. Also had some issues where viewing map freezes unit.

Skip this navigation receiver

Written By Palunnk, VA on Monday, August 11, 2014

So, I thought, this thing is Kenwood, it should be awesome, right? How wrong I was. I bought this unit because we needed GPS to move across country. It only worked for 2 days into our 8 day trip, then bam, no more maps. Tried updating firmware multiple times (yes, I did the steps correctly) and Kenwood says I have to pay to pull it out and ship to them for them to take a look at the head unit. This has been a known issue with this model, why haven't they pulled it? It's a complete waste of your money and will end up causing you more headaches and costing more money than anything else.

Pros:Big, bright display, no problem blue-toothing devices

Cons:Delays in everything that actually does work, GPS only worked for about 3 days

Navigation has MAJOR issues

Navigation started not to work within 1 week. There was problems with the software. The GPS could register what direction I was traveling but could not position the car within a map. Then error messages started popping up on the screen saying there were "memory errors."

Pros:The look of the unit was good. Easy to install. The GUI was FINE and easy to figure out.

Cons:The navigation began giving errors within the first week I used the unit. I would not recommend buying this unit for its navigation component. Very disappointed in that aspect. Also, while driving at night the screen was VERY BRIGHT even at the most dim of settings.

Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD

Good all around receiver. Purchased primarily because the bluetooth capability would sync with my Droid based phone and play Pandora. Pairs quickly most of the time but will occasionally not pair correctly.

dnx690hd is junk

Written By dissapointed, salem nh on Wednesday, March 26, 2014

one star is way too many for this glitchy piece of junk. i have had 5 of these in my company vehicles. bought three initially and Crutchfield has replaced two outside of their normal time frame, they have been awesome. all 5 units have failed. locked up navs, touch screen failures. many firmware updates and much fiddling and I've got three useless boxes. kenwood is totally unresponsive on this and they should bee replacing these radios as i suspect every one of them fails eventually. there are a lot of complaints about this series on line. steer clear of these, i can almost guarantee misery if you buy one.

DNX690HD Best Radio

This is a Very Good radio. Don't let the Fit your car stop you from trying buying what you want. I pulled my radio out and found out what room I had and asked the best Tech(Clarence) all my questions. He worked with me for over a week to make the right decisions. If you are ever worried about where you going to put all those connections. Look behind your cluster panel and you could find plenty of hidden room. Look at everything and don't be afraid to ask questions. With Clarence there weren't any dumb questions.

Pros:The built in Bluetooth works great with my phone. I have a Nokia Windows phones. You can text hands free and dial any contacts on your phone. The USB cable works with any Flash Drive and plays all my music. This is a great radio. Even without my Amp it made my speakers sing.

Cons:I don't have any complaints about this radio. Kenwood makes a great radio

Satisfied

I got the refurbished model, and so far i love it. I do not have any problems that other people are having, lagging or bluetooth or anything. Crutchfield helped me with everything i asked ( one of the guy was a little grumpy, but i got my answers). Installation depends on your knowledge of wiring. For me, it was not plug and play and i did not take it to an installer. It took awhile, but i managed and learned throughout the process.

The sound was great. I am not an audio enthusiast nor do i have a sub. For me, the bass was good enough. My friends who have audio systems in their cars said it sounded fine for not having an amp or a sub.

Bluetooth works well. At first it lagged alot, but i quickly found out it was trying to load my contacts and call history into the unit. After everything was loaded, it was smooth again. My calls have no problem hearing me and i have no problem hearing them.

Nav is powered by garmin. I wished the voice was a little more smooth. ( i might be too used to google nav on my phone). I get nav signal about 3-5 seconds after the unit is turned on. no complaints there.

Just What I Needed

Written By Trixx, Appleton, WI on Monday, March 17, 2014

It seems from other reviews that this head unit is either really hot or cold as far as likes. I've had mine for just over a month, and no issues whatsoever. I replaced my factory nav in my 05 Tahoe, along with a PAC unit to retain chimes and steering wheel controls, and everything works just like it should. I'm not a fan of streaming audio through bluetooth, because I won't waste my data when I can just plug a 32gig thumb drive in and go.

Hands free calling through bluetooth is great, DVD playback is perfect, the NAV is flawless, although my only gripe if I had to pick one is that entering addresses takes awhile as there is a lag when you push a button on that screen. Other than that, no GPS issues.

Bootup time is slow, mine takes about 20 seconds from starting the truck to music playback, but every other head unitl like this that I've seen is the same. If you need to start your ride and slam it in gear instantly and go anyway, you have more issues than this little head unit.

HD radio is not a biggie to me, as there are only 3 stations broadcasting HD in my area that I know of.

Good Easy System

Easy system to operate. Navigation is spot on accurate but it takes some time getting used to make changes. It said it was andriod compatible but not that I have seen. Though I will say that I did forget to get the adapter for it. The USB will charge the android but will only play music from bluetooth. Take in mind I dont use Pandora or Iheart. I just loaded my songs on a thumbdrive and connected to the USB and no issues.

Pros:Functionility. Display. Ease of moving from on app to another. Fits perfect.

Cons:No audio jack on the front but there is one in the back. Using an Android takes some work to get what you want out of it.

Glitzy but fatally flawed

I knew I was taking a risk with this unit, but figured the combination of great Crutchfield support and the latest 1.7 firmware that everything would be OK. My family was really impressed with the looks and multitasking, and being able to play iPod video to an external monitor in the rear seat was priceless for kids and parents alike. I really loved having Nav always available, and on a much larger screen than our smart phones.

Unfortunately it all came to an end a few weeks after installation, I got a "GIR Low Mem" error on the Garmin Satnav. I did a factory reset, but after that that menus and graphics on the Garmin Satnav are all messed up and unusable, and the unit cannot properly place the vehicle in the map. Kenwood's "support" is to send it back for a "real" factory reset. Instead I arranged to an exchange to a Jensen with Crutchfield.

I won't miss HD Radio too much, which is the only feature the Jensen replacement is missing. I won't miss the microSD card that does only map/firmware updates, the Jensen reads music and video from USB and microSD media from the front. I won't miss the 8GB iPod in the glovebox with a 32gB microSD in the Jensen. I won't miss the Kenwood starting the iPod music on every bootup, wanted or not. I don't know how boot times compare but the Kenwood is no speed demon there.

Pros:Pretty, bright display, great multitasking, up to date 2013 map, Garmin Satnav is the Nav standard to beat.

Cons:User unfixable "GIR Low Mem" error. Kenwood does not pre-ship or cross-ship a replacement unit.
Touch screen display often slow to scroll or respond to touch. Annoying 1+ second delay on BT Phone. Slow bootup.
UI often bizarre- to find iPod Videos, scroll/find and press the magnifying glass icon, choose something irrelevant, then switch to the Movie icon. If DVD's are playing the entire screen is invisible modal controls. Switching video out from DVD to iPod requires a trip through Settin

DNX690HD

I just installed the DNX690HD in my 2013 Ford F150 with the Idatalink Maestro unit connected through the Sync system. The installation was easy and the instructions easy to follow. The GPS works great. I installed the antenna on top of the speedometer shelf under the top.

Pros:Easy to install
Easy to use
Can use steering wheel controls
Can use installed SYNC system and microphone

Great Product at great price. Met all my expectations and more

Product is fairly easy to operate. All the features are exactly as advertised. I had to change my unit out because Navigation wouldn't upload any map data. Crutchfield provided a replacement right away. Installation was somewhat complicated but I'm not very familiar with car stereo so it may have been my fault.

Steer Clear

Written By Bob, Minneapolis, MN on Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Wish I didn't have to give it even one star. Unit worked great for one month, then problems started. I fought the good fight with firmware updates that would "work" for another few weeks. I kept hoping that Kenwood would get a fix out for all the issues (Nav lock up, Bluetooth, etc) so I wouldn't have to tear it out of my dash. Now after three updates the problems are worse and I have sent it back to Kenwood. If you look on the Kenwood user forums you'll see many, many issues with these units. There is an internal SD card that is not user accessible that becomes corrupt. Gramin Nav seldom works more than a few months, bluetooth is intermittent at best. Now my unit is stuck in an endless update cycle and won't boot to the main menu. Such a surprise as I have always loved the Kenwood Ham radio gear. Beware, do your research.

Excellent Nav Receiver

The features most important to me were the Garmin GPS, easy to read icons and a volume knob. I took my time installing so it took seven hours, but for the next vehicle I expect to be under 3. I purchased a pry and trim tool at the local auto parts store and it made trim panel removal easy. Suggestions I would like to pass on. I trimmed the plastic protective wrap back to just cover the touch screen then left it on until installation was complete. Make sure the USB cable will be accessible after installation for updates and mobile device connection. Before you close it up, double check everything you want is connected. The unit takes about 20 seconds to start up. It may seem like a long time when you're ready to go, but most of the time it's perfect for letting the engine warm up. Even though the icons are large and easy to read, it's important to set up as much as you can before you start driving because it can be distracting. Bluetooth setup took less than one minute. If you want to play music from your phone, have the music app on your phone open with the playlist selected. It can take another 30 seconds for the phone to sync with the unit, but then all you have to do is push Bluetooth on the screen and your music starts playing. Very cool. For voice dialing, do not talk slowly. Speak in a normal tone and speed. I didn't connect to the parking brake switch, but I still get DVD audio through the speakers and video through the aux connection. Very happy with this unit.

Pros:Great product support from Crutchfield. Easy to follow instructions. Very easy to use. Hands free cellphone. Built in GPS. Automatic iPhone sync.

Lots of features

There are quite a few features to learn more than expected . I bought the refurbished unit and it works flawless so far. Going through Crutchfeild and their online advisor service was a very pleasant surprise .

Pros:Lots of cool functions navigation works great you can even look through rear camera while traveling with navigation on to see your trailer ect.

Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD

Written By twr, Sacramento,Ca on Wednesday, December 18, 2013

I would not recomend purchasing this unit or any in this series for the following reasons. When installing the unit a wire came out of one of the connectors and when I called Kenwood to find where the wire went they told me I would have to buy a new harness.I contacted Crutchfield and they knew exactly which wire I was refering to and told me where to place it. Secondly the unit locks up at random even with the latest firmware. The fan squeals for a few minutes when the the unit is first turned on and the vehicle is cold. The Kenwood mail inrebate is a joke, they claim not to get the forms by the cutoff date,they give you instrustions on how to resubmit the rebate and them deny it because it was not received by the cutoff date.

UPDATED 1/20/14: I definitely would not recommend buying this unit. I performed the latest firmware update and now my navigation does not work and I must send it back for repair at my expense. I performed the latest update to address the lockup issues which by the way still occur. When performing the update the instructions warn that if a USD error occurs you must contact Kenwood, well my displayed the error at the end of the update and now it must be repaired.

Cons:UPDATED 1/20/14: frequent lockups
Firmware issues that cause you to send the unit for repair at your expense.

Kenwood dnx690hd

Cons:No GPS speech to text.
Bluetooth interrupts radio when a message or alert comes up on my iphone. A beep would be fine , but to completely turn off music with a message interrupt makes me wish I got something else. While in NAV this does not happen..

Kenwood dnx690

Installation went without a hitch. The steering wheel controls work just fine with the steering wheel adaptor harness. The bluetooth interface with my iphone5 works great. I am able to automatically answer incoming calls by just saying hello. The bluetooth interface with my purchased itunes works fantastic. The Garmin gps has been working without any issues. This unit was installed in a Toyota Tacoma.

Not for me

This unit had one glaring issue which required I return it but even so I probably would have sent it back due to too many smaller dislikes.

The main problem is that I bought this unit for my convertible and when I had the roof down, even if I was parked in deep shade, the screen was unreadable. I understand different Kenwoods have brightness and contrast controls but this model does not.

The sound quality was good when it worked but after two days the sound would fade out for a few seconds with regularity. This occurred regardless of my using the radio, CD or even Aux input. I did order the refurbished unit so maybe that was the problem.

Pros:Easy install

Cons:Screen visibility and lack of brightness controls were the main problems for me. I also found its response time to be slow

Some major problems

Written By Roland, Rhode Island on Wednesday, October 23, 2013

I purchased this unit in May 2013 and at first it worked very well. As time went on it did stranger and stranger things. The majority of the issues are related to the NAV function. I use this unit basically as a 'radio' (XM 99.99% of the time) with the NAV my default display. I do not use any of the more modern functions like iPod connection, Bluetooth pairing to a phone etc. The firmware has been updated to the latest available from the Kenwood site, and as things got stranger the firmware has been reapplied a few times to no avail. It is to the point now that the NAV function is completely unusable. On power up NAV will work for about 2 to 3 minutes and then it completely hangs. The 'radio' still works fine and I can switch to HD, XM or play a CD without issue. The only solution is to power the radio off, wait a few minutes and try again. It goes without saying that a NAV unit that hangs in use is not worth much. I have contacted the Crutchfield tech folks and they have suggested that I contact Kenwood for a warrantee repair. I will be doing this today, but it it a real pain to pull the dash apart on my vehicle and then to be without the radio for as long as it takes for the repair.

I have given the unit a 2 star rating because of the NAV failure. All the other functions (that I use) seem to be OK. I hope that the repair will be successful, otherwise it will be a long two years for Kenwood as I intend to make sure the the repaired unit functions at 100%.

Updated 12/27/13: It is not possible to rate an item lower than 1 star, 1 star is too much for this unit. The unit went back for repair to the New Jersey service center. It was received at the service center on 11/05/13 and was finally 'repaired' on 11/26/13. UPS delivered the unit on 11/29. I immediately re-installed it in my vehicle and for a while it actually worked as advertised. On 12/22 the NAV function started to fail just like it did before the repair. It is now at the point where the NAV function does not work at all. I have contacted Kenwood to see what we do next. Since I refuse to pay for any more shipping charges I have asked Kenwood to send me prepaid shipping labels, I am currently waiting for their response. At this point I would hope that Kenwood will do the right thing and assume all costs required to make the device work, shipping included. If the next 'repair' fails to resolve the problems I will have to insist that the DNX690HD be replaced with a better model that actually works. I would strongly advise that you steer clear of this model. This is the second Kenwood NAV I have purchased in 7 months. The first, a different model (but still an Excelon), was returned because it completely failed within the 90 day money back period . Crutchfield gave me full credit for the first unit and I purchased this one. In hindsight, this may not have been the best choice. Hopefully the next installment in the saga will be a good one.

Pros:The Audio functions operate as described. But then this is the very least you should expect from a 'radio' ...
Updated 12/27/13: At this point, none that I can find

Cons:NAV function is absolutely worthless. Hopefully a warrantee repair will solve this
Updated 12/27/13:Where do I start... For now I would suggest that you stay away from this model, if not all Kenwood/Garmin NAV units.

Almost wort it

I installed this in a 2012 F350. Maestro integration. Unit is always freezing up and needs to be reset frequently. I updated all firmware on both the Kenwood and Maestro. After the latest update it actually worked as advertised for about a month. Now the garmin freezes after 5 min, if it doesn't it has no map. just a blank screen eith the arrow. The radio side still works good, even with the garmin locked. I should have just spent a little more and got a Ford Factory Nav. All It is worth is an expensive widescreen Ipod dock.

2011 F150 Radio Upgrade

I purchased the radio because my old Garmin GPS unit was acting up and with the size of the truck I wanted a backup camera. The install was very simple with the idatalink maestro rr to keep Ford Sync the unit was installed within a couple of hours. I have to be honest this is the first radio in my 20+ years driving where I've replace a factory/oem radio and I couldn't be happier. I was able to activate non oem steering wheel controls with a little trickery basically I added the Sync unit and steering wheel controls myself and only had partial steering wheel controls this was due to the 2011 F150 steering wheel controls running through the can bus which I was able to bypass for the phone hands free with the new radio and idatalink I was successful in getting all steering wheel controls to work. As for the radio it is awesome it displays the tire pressure info, real time instrument gauges and climate control functions - this only works if you have automatic climate controls. GPS works great or as you would expect from Garmin. I own an android phone the integration is flawless works as it did with the Ford Sync before the new install.

Pros:GPS, Ford Can Bus integration gives you real time info from sensors and dash guages. If you have XM Radio you can still retain as the data port on the radio is no longer used by idatalink maestro - not sure if you need to purchase a non oem unit to retain as I use the usb for music.

Cons:Still learning the new features! Ability to dim the unit through the dash control also the ability to remove unnecessary icons from the touch screen. Now I need to upgrade the OEM speakers!

Don't Waste Your Money!!

Written By James, Washington on Thursday, September 26, 2013

First of all found out when I bought this unit that this model is NOT compatable with bluetooth for iphone, OK can deal with that, next, navagation actually worked for only about 2 months then NO NAVAGATION says no data available, called Crutchfield, got an update through Kenwood, navagation worked for about 3 weeks then NO NAVAGATION again, call again sure enough Kenwood has another update, went through same process and updated, however no change still NO Navagation!! I could have spent $200 on a unit and saved $$ if I just wanted to listen to music, with this unit this is all I have. Now I have to go through Kenwood to find out what they are going to do about this Waste of Money.

Love it except...

Written By Jeff, Dallas, TX on Wednesday, August 21, 2013

I love the device. My only complaint is that (currently anyway) there doesn't seem to be a cable that allows you to watch iPhone5 video. It works perfectly with previous versions of iPhone, but not iPhone5. Does anyone out there know if there's a cable available that allow this?

Good For the Non-Techy

I bought this in-dash GPS/bluetooth/CD player for a cross-country trip and it had some glitches, but Crutchfield took care of each without any hassle whatsoever. First, the microphone was defective and had to be replaced. Second, the unit would not sync with an ipod or iphone. We talked to Crutchfiled tech support and after 15 minutes they concluded that the unit was defective. They sent a new one and I have been using the new unit now without any issues.

The GPS is pretty solid. She does the crazy things every GPS does, recalculates the route suddenly for no reason and then recalculates again and says exactly what she said the first time. Mostly, though I have found the GPS to be reliable. It has gotten me everywhere I wanted to go.

The touch screen is a little tricky as I have to use a knuckle; it does not respond to fingertip pressure. I have found though that I have adapted to its sensitivity and it's not a problem.

I like that the Bluetooth will cut into music that's playing, so I can actually hear the phone ring. I also like that the GPS will lower the music volume so I can hear the directions. It has nice integration of functions.

Overall, I'm very happy with the unit. The display is plenty big enough, and the visual quality is excellent. I think if I hadn't had issues with the first unit, this would be a five star review.

Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD - 2001 MB E320

Replaced the factory radio/CD/navigation unit for a 2001 Mercedes Benz E320. I had first installed a Jensen VM9414 unit with the retractable screen but when the display was fully extended it covered the heater/AC controls, a real driving annoyance. Plus it looked a bit schlocky with a second rate after-market appearance.

The DNX690HD fits perfectly and looks like it came from the factory. Most importantly, the performance is outstanding. The Garmin navigation is the best, hands down. The radio is excellent and the cell phone Bluetooth works well. However, I use the audio DVD function 99% of the time. So far, I have over 30 albums stored with apparently a lot more room to go (using MP3 192kbps quality).

I really do prefer the separate rotary volume control that is part of the design from the types that use touch-screen up/down volume setting options. Adjusting the volume is the most often used function and the rotary control lets you change it without looking at the screen or inadvertently pressing the wrong icon while you are trying to keep your eyes on the road.

The 5 Volt pre-amp output works especially well with the MB Bose power amps providing original sensitivity range. The auto-dimmer optional feature works well in the Nav-sync mode using the GPS time reference. Unit starts up fast and I have not experienced any of the re-boot/crashing problems some customer reviews have noted.

Bottom line: a state-of-the-art upgrade for a very reasonable price.

Pros:- Garmin navigation is the best; DVD/radio performance is outstanding; screen clarity and brightness are excellent; high quality fit/finish; Kenwood reputation and support.

Cons:- Bluetooth works OK but takes a few extra steps to synchronize with multiple cell phones.

Kenwood DNX690HD Review

I've only had the Kenwood DNX690HD for about 2 weeks in my 2007 Honda Accord and I can say that I really like it so far. There are a lot of settings that I have to get familiar with in regards to enhancing the sound but I like all of the features that it comes with out of the box. I would recommend this unit to anyone looking for a good navigation double din head unit.

Pros:Tons of features and a nice display. Pretty easy to navigate through the different sources and comes with a remote, which some head units the remote is optional.

Cons:The cost could have been cheaper but I guess you get what you pay for. Also, had to get the Ipod cable separately instead of being built-in.

so far so good

the gps is a little bit slower than my portable garmin,hd radio is good ,dvd is operating fine, wat i like is you can update the software,that make the unit faster every time.wat i don't like is they should build in the GPS antenna with the unit ,that way you don't have to mount the wire in front of car panel.

Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD

The EXCELON is loaded with features and all seem to work as advertised. I love the Garmin GPS. It was what sold me on buying Kenwood.

Pros:Garmin GPS. Loaded with features. Great sound and video. Hooked up to all my steering wheel controls and speakers.

Cons:Extra cost wiring harness for GM cars was not plug-n-play for my Torrent. I had to cut and splice many wires. The instructions are not very clear on some of these wiring contections. Does not work with latest models of cell phones for Bluetooth.

2011 F-150 Super Crew

I've been very impressed with this navigation head unit. I'm hearing sounds in music that I didn't know were there with the factory stereo in my truck. Installation was fairly simple, about 4 hours total including setting up the iDatalink Maestro, all soldering, and installing the SXV200V1 SiriusXM satellite tuner. I haven't had any problems with mine locking up, but it came from the factory with the 1.3 software already on it. For those with freezing issues, try the latest flash which can be downloaded from Kenwood's website. I'm sure you'll be just as impressed with this head unit as I am.

Pros:Sounds amazing. I like the different routing feature of the navigation. Being able to change the background image to something you like is definitely a nice feature.

Cons:"Ready for SiriusXM" requires the SXV200V1 tuner which is only on the XM service. XM's reception isn't as good as Sirius...it loses signal a bit easier, but it's still pretty good.

Excellent Excelon!

Written By Sam D., Houston, TX on Sunday, May 12, 2013

This Kenwood DNX690HD is Fantastic! Amazing features, Incredible sound quality. Beautiful screen, graphics, and G.U.I. This blows Alpine and Pioneer away! My unit works flawlessly, boots up quickly, Garmin Navigation is amazingly fast and re-routes quickly. Offers Navteq traffic guidance as well. Iphone 4s control is incredible, with on-screen touch control of all my media as well as pandora and aha. Bluetooth connectivity is excellent for hands free phone use... Is there anything that this unit can't do? I prefer this to the other models with the larger screens because i have had issues with motorized face-plates in the past and I also like the very accessible volume control knob... the rest of the audio/video features are all there as well. Better tuner section than Alpine or Pioneer, Better G.U.I, Better Navigation (Garmin), 5-Volt pre-outs (built-in RCA jacks compared to Alpine's "harness dongles" which add an additional unnecessary connection point and use small gauge wire to a "pin" connector which could result in changing resistance values in the signal path) , 24-bit D.A.C., plays all file types, split screen Nav., Bluetooth, iPhone/iPod control... I could go on forever. I'm not sure why all the reviews don't give 5 stars... this Head Unit is FLAWLESS! Not sure what more one could want or need. There are a couple reviews which give this unit a low rating... I don't get it... This is as good as it gets! The Best!

Kenwood forgot to mention

Written By Rod, Zachary, LA on Thursday, May 09, 2013

I am disappointed at this unit I had it for a week. The unit locked up on me while driving and froze up every time I reset it then got it replaced with a DNX890hd same thing happened with it too. The audio shop i deal with called kenwood. They failed to tell them or anybody else (when u hook this unit up it has to have a relay on switch wire for power and update the unit strait out the box is a must.) I founded out hard way

UPDATED 6/10/13: This is my second review. I received a new unit a week ago it is a great unit by far better than most out there the same problem happened with this one also freezing and locked up twice and some of u will notice the problem too. The things I said in my first review was based on a conversation with a kenwood rep. And trust im not a rookie. And since I did as the rep. advice me to do that i had noted in my first review its perfect with out issues.

Pros:Great screen, nice controls, nice interface.
UPDATED 6/10/13: Great unit if it gets the power it needs

Cons:Kenwood needs to put info in each box how to really install this unit.
(Have to put relay on yellow power wire from unit , ground unit on vehicle frame, and update firmware before using this unit. These things are a must per. The kenwood rep.
UPDATED 6/10/13: Locks up, have to reset often

Giving a second chances

As of right now I can not give it a great rating. I got it about 3 weeks ago, and the system has completely crashed. I am weighting on a new one to arrive today so I'm giving kenwood a second chance. Lets hope that it just was one bad one.

Pros:Great looking sounds great.

Cons:Crashed in three weeks, disappointed in the garmen nav system. I love Garmen but this unit dose not have all the features that it should have for the price.

Kenwood DNX690HD Review

I have owned several in-dash GPS units (all Pioneer), and this is by far the best. The unit has an intuitive interface that is easy to navigate with a snappy response. I had it professionally installed and there are no issues with it at all. I have a JL stealthbox w/ 12" subwoofer, door speakers, amplifier, ipod cable, siriusxm tuner, and backup camera attached and all function flawlessly. The unit takes more than 20 seconds to boot up to the Nav screen, but if I put the car in reverse, the screen will switch to the backup camera right away. Both SiriusXM and HD Radio work well and the interfaces are easy to use.

Switching between inputs is fast, and the touch screen is just sensitive enough. I was able to customize the menu with my three favorite icons (Ipod, HD Radio, SiriusXM) at the top. The front panel has buttons for the Nav and phone, so I didn't feel the need to have them as shortcuts on the menu. The screen is very sharp, and the Garmin navigation is accurate and very fast to recalculate. It paired quickly with my phone and the voice on both ends is loud and clear. This unit is excellent overall, and I would recommend it. However, this unit is supposed to be the successor to the 6990 (Kenwood's words when speaking with customer support), but the lane assist and junction view feature has been removed from the 690HD. This feature isn't essential, but it should be included for the price of this GPS.

Pros:Very sharp screen with a snappy interface, great Bluetooth functionality, allows you to make many A/V adjustments, USB extension for firmware updates. Aside from garmin smartphone link, which will be functional in a future firmware update, every feature works as advertised.

Not for Multiple Phone Use

If you have multiple people that drive your car and want to use the bluetooth be warned, it will store all the phones but you will have to go into the bluetooth settings each time and select what you want that phone to do at that time. The First or Main phone will operate the phone features by default but not audio streaming that falls to the second phone in the list, even if that phone is not in the car at the time. You have to go in and tell it to use phone 1 and then if phone 2 uses the car you have to go back in and set both items for that phone each time. Also when using the GPS the unit will lock up and you have to shut down and turn back on.

Pros:Nicest phone interface works great with a windows phone, okay with iphones

Cons:bluetooth interface stinks
Needs options to remove hide choices on the menu screen.
after reading a txt needs to take you back to previous screen.

Problems with Pandora and iPhone 5

Written By MichaelG, Texas on Friday, March 22, 2013

All round this is a very nice unit, though not the easiest to learn I've ever seen...once you know how to work it it is pretty good. It'd be nice if you could drop the sources that you don't have from the main menu (I have no Sirius Radio...why does it offer me a choice to select it???)...but the biggest issue is that you can't connect an iPhone 5 (may be other iPhones too...wouldn't know about that I only have 5's to try it with) via Bluetooth and use the Pandora function. I expect this is a software bug that will be fixed at some point, but until it is it seriously devalues the product for me...I am considering my options, but will probably return it.

2010 tundra

Nice deck sounds great touchscreen is nice my buddy has an older kenwood and this one is way faster on the other hand it keeps freezing will continue to play music but no buttons will work shut off and turn on and all is well again hooked up to iPhone 5 through usb cable pandora doesn't play though radio but pics and song info does but will play through Bluetooth really like nav and features if deck doesn't stop freezing will return

Absolutely Awsome Stereo

I had absolutely no problems installing this stereo. My only issues were related to security preferences on my Samsung Galaxy S, but once I figured those out it was smooth sailing. I also picked up an Axxess ASWC to connect my 09 WRX steering wheel controls. The controller failed to properly detect my car model and so I had to manually program the interface, but that works extremely well too. The Kenwood 690HD is the fastest video head unit I have ever used and has the options to add pretty much anything I could want. I could get more options with the 890HD, but then I would lose the volume knob, and who really needs a front view camera anyway? If you can't see whats directly in front of you, you have bigger problems. GPS in this unit is very fast, it gets a GPS lock in by the time it is loaded in to the GPS menu and calculation of routes only takes a second or two. The Bluetooth is extremely convenient, however sometimes If I forget to turn on my phones bluetooth before I turn on the stereo, I need to reboot the head unit to get it to connect to the phone, and initial syncronization is a bit slow sometimes, but after it is connected and sync'd then operation is quite intuitive and fast. My chief issue was that voice commands sometimes need to be entered twice due to Nuance needing to load on the phone. Another issue was that it takes my phone about 60 seconds to load and buffer pandora, but I cannot fault the headunit for my cell phone being slow. Great Product!

Pros:Extremely fast head unit, GPS satallite lock often occurs before the GPS software is even finnished loading, works well with my Samsung Galaxy S but cannot make up for my phone being slow. Pandora works well and sounds great, so does USB, CD, regular Radio, HD Radio and Bluetooth phone media playback. Speakerphone for the cellphone is intuitive and works well too.

Cons:Garmin Smartlink is not yet operational and will require a software update. Does not connect to a Garmin Ecoroute HD even though it could be programmed to do so. Does not have a front view camera output. Does not have Navigation Voice Commands or Audio Playback Voice Commands.

Glitchy

Easy to use interface although not very nice to look at. Has a volume knob which is a must .menu nav and tel hard keys are nice but its a pain to go back to the menu to switch from sat To fm etc. the sat volume is much lower than the fm volume, needs an amp. Unit hangs and glitches often when switching between modes and doesn't work with my iPod through the USB leash. Bluetooth music function will hang the unit if you don't already have it playing on your phone. If there is no firmware update to fix thes issues in the next 90 days its going back

MOSFET Amplifier: The Kenwood DNX690HD is equipped
with a MOSFET amplifier. Compared to conventional power supplies, the MOSFET
amplification circuit is smaller and more efficient, and it delivers increased
power with less distortion and absolutely zero on/off switching noise. More
power means louder and cleaner music at higher volumes because you're not
pushing the limits of the amplification circuit. The power output specs for the
DNX690HD are as follows:

6ch/5V Preamp Outputs: The DNX690HD features front, rear and
subwoofer 5.0-volt preamp outputs. The front and rear speaker preamp outputs are
balance and fade adjustable. The subwoofer preamp output is non-fading. The
front, rear, and subwoofer preamp outputs are fixed to the rear chassis of the
head unit.

Front & Rear High-Pass Filter: The DNX690HD features an
independent High-Pass Crossover for the front & rear channels when your front &
rear speakers are connected by the unit's speaker-outputs or preamp-outputs. You
can adjust the high-pass crossover from 'Through' (off), 40, 60, 80, 100, 120,
150, 180, or 220 Hz. The
"Through" selection is a full-range setting. This feature is very helpful when
you have smaller-type speakers in the front and larger-type speakers installed
in the rear of the vehicle.

Subwoofer Controls: The Kenwood DNX690HD offers the
following subwoofer controls, when you have the unit's subwoofer preamp output
activated.

Low Pass Filter: The receiver features a built-in Low
Pass Filter control for the preamp-output, when the output is set to
Subwoofer. You can select from 50, 60, 80, Hz, 100 Hz, 120 Hz, or 'Through'
(off).

Subwoofer Phase: You can adjust the phase of the
subwoofer output between 180-degrees (Reverse) or 0-degrees (Normal).

Subwoofer Level: Once the Subwoofer preamp output is
activated, you can independently control the subwoofer preamp output level
(-50 to +10) from the navigation receiver.

Speaker Type Setting: This feature tailors the DNX690HD
according to the type of front speakers in your vehicle. You may select Standard
(for speakers with a general diameter), Narrow (for speakers with a small
diameter), Middle (for speakers with a medium diameter), or Wide (for speakers
with a large diameter).

Preset EQ: Eight EQ curves are preset into memory, allowing
you to recall the best preset EQ curve for different types of music. Each preset
has its own level settings for bass (100Hz), midrange (1kHz), and treble
(12.5kHz). You can choose from the following preset EQ curves - Rock, Pops,
Easy, Top 40, Jazz, Natural, Flat, and User.

EQ Pro: The DNX690HD features independent Bass,
Treble, and Midrange control when the Preset EQ is in User mode. EQ Pro allows
you to adjust the following settings for the Bass, Treble and Mid frequency
levels.

Loudness: This function enhances low and high frequencies to
make the sound clearer lower volumes.

Volume Offset: The level of each source may be independently
adjusted to prevent radical leaps in output volume when switching from one
source to another. The available settings range from -8 to +6.

Dynamic Range: The dynamic range can be adjusted by selecting either
Normal, Wide or Dialog. Dialog makes the total sound volume become larger as
compared with Wide and Normal, allowing you to listen to the movie's dialogue
more clearly. This is effective only on Dolby Digital software.

Key Beep: The in-dash multimedia head unit provides an
audible beep to confirm button operation. This function can be turned On or Off.

Custom Background Images: You can download a still image
(800 x 600) for use as
the unit's background from a connected USB thumbdrive.

Custom Top Menu: The Top Menu screen (main menu) features two
rows of source & settings icons. The top row has 3 large icons which can be
accessed directly, while the bottom row has 12 smaller icons which have to
be scrolled through. You can customize the Top Menu by selecting your three
favorite source/settings icons as the top 3 icons.

Start Up Time: The Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD has a start up time of
approximately 29.5 seconds from Off to the "Warning" screen. Once the "Warning"
screen appears, you can tap the "Agree" button on the head unit's touchscreen to
go instantly to the Navigation screen or press the "Menu" hard-key to access the
Source menu.

Multi-Language Display: For your convenience, this unit is
equipped with a multiple language display. You can select the language which is
best suited to your first language; English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese.

Split Screen AV Control: The DNX690HD's screen views can be
easily toggled from one to another simply be touching the screen or appropriate
button. The Split Screen AV Control mode divides the screen into two screens,
with navigation on the left and a control window on the right. With this
Picture-in-Picture type function, the head unit can now display the navigation
map screen and basic playback controls for the source screens (or rear-view
camera) simultaneously.

Parking Brake Detection: To prevent the display of video
while the vehicle is in motion, the light green wire (within 4-pin harness)
must be connected to the vehicle's parking brake detection circuit. You cannot
view video unless your vehicle's parking brake is engaged. If you attempt to
view video without the parking brake engaged, the unit's LCD touchscreen will
simply display a blue screen and "Parking Off". While your vehicle
is in motion (parking brake off), you can still view all of the head unit's menu
screens/settings, source information, metadata, album artwork, and the
navigation on-screen map.

Front-Panel Controls w/ Variable Color Illumination: In
addition to the touchscreen controls, the unit includes frequently used buttons
and a rotary-dial along the left edge of the screen. You can adjust the head
unit's button illumination from the following preset colors - Blue, Purple, Sky
Blue, Aqua, Yellow, Green, Amber, Red, Pink, White or Scan (Scans through all preset
colors). You can also select a custom "User" color that is adjusted between Red,
Green, and Blue (values range: 0-31). You can save up to 3 custom color presets. The Eject and Kenwood logo remain red, regardless of
variable color illumination setting.

Dimmer: The dimmer function will dim this unit's display and
button illumination automatically
when the vehicle light switch is turned On when you connect orange/white
Illumination wire of this player's harness. You can also manually dim the unit's
display and button illumination.

Security Indicator: The Security Indicator feature helps to
protect the Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD against theft. Turning this function "On" allows the
security indicator light (red) on the front-panel of the head unit to flash when your
vehicle's ignition is off.

2-DIN Chassis: The DNX690HD has a
2-DIN chassis (also known as Double DIN or size DD), and will fit in many
vehicles with a large dash opening. The unit can be ISO-mounted using factory brackets, or Euro-mounted using the
supplied mounting sleeve. As always, please consult Crutchfield's
Outfit My Car to verify fit with your vehicle.

Onboard Navigation

Garmin/NAVTEQ Navigation: With built-in Garmin navigation
software and NAVTEQ map data (CN North America NT 2013), the Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD
features on-screen maps of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The built-in maps include over 6-million
Points of Interest (POIs) such as hotels, restaurants, gas stations,
attractions, parking, airports, ATMs, and more. The built-in navigation software
provides you with calculated on-screen
routes and audible directions to follow in order to reach your destination
safely.

Note: Car navigation maps are frequently updated. While
this database was judged to be as accurate as possible at the time of its
release, a map database can never be 100% accurate. Road information that is
maintained in the map databases, such as turn restrictions or road names may
change over time.

Software/Map Data Updates: When the preloaded maps are
considered out of date, the DNX690HD will provide periodic notification at
startup. Garmin software and map updates can be downloaded as required, via
microSD memory card. To find a software or map update, please go to
www.garmin.com/kenwood.

Note: The unit's microSD-card slot is located on the
front-panel hidden behind a flip-out cover (labeled NAV Map). The microSD-card slot is only
used for software and map updates. It cannot be used for playback of
media files from an microSD memory card.

GPS Receiver & Antenna: The Kenwood Excelon DNX690HD
employs a high-sensitivity GPS receiver that is forgiving of less than optimal
antenna placement, giving you additional placement options. The included GPS
antenna that features a self-adhesive base and an attached 11.5' cable
terminated by a proprietary plug which connects to GPS-input on the back of the
head unit. The GPS antenna is designed to be mounted inside the vehicle on the
dash. The GPS antenna measures 1.3125" (w) x 0.625" (h) x 1.4375" (d). The
self-adhesive pad measures 2.5625" x 2.5625"

Update Rate: 1/second, continuous

Position Accuracy: <6 meters, typical

Note: The first time you turn on this unit, you must
wait while the system acquires satellite signals for the first time. This
process could take up to several minutes. Make sure your vehicle is outdoors
in an open area away from tall building and trees for fastest acquisition.
After the system acquires satellites for the first time, it will acquire
satellites quickly each time thereafter.

NAVTEQ Traffic: NAVTEQ Traffic receives traffic information
that is broadcast over the FM Radio Data System. The free FM TMC subscription
activates automatically after the navigation system acquires satellite signals
while receiving traffic signals from the service provider. NAVTEQ Traffic
provides real-time traffic data for over 90 major cities in North America,
including the United States and Canada. If traffic is congested up ahead or
there is a road closure, the navigation system will automatically re-navigate
the route to show you how to get to your destination, quickly and easily.
Alternatively, in manual mode, the system will add delay time to your trip so
you can decide to avoid or continue on your current route. When the unit is
receiving traffic information, a traffic icon appears in the upper-left corner
of the Map page. The traffic icon changes color to indicate the severity of
traffic conditions on your route or on the road you are currently traveling.